The importance of Tolkien's minor characters

[Saurreg]

And to add to my previous post, I would like to include Théodred, Grimbold and Elfhelm for their exploits during the First Battle of Isen.

Had Théodred not defended the approaches to the Westfold prior to the events in TTT, there would not have been the battle of Helmsdeep and there certainly would not have been the mustering of the Rohirrm and their subsequent relief of Minas Tirith.

Théodred bought time not just for Rohan, but for all the free nations of Middle Earth and ultimately, he sacrificed his life in doing so. Truely a valiant prince...